The courthouse steps still echoed in Lyse's ears when she finally slid into the backseat of the waiting car. The bail decision had been a dizzying spiral, slight relief when conditional release was granted, even though she had hoped that Ophelia would remain in custody, and a sharp stab of fear every time her name was spoken aloud.
Lyse wrapped her arms tightly around herself, as though she could physically hold in the unease rising in her chest.
Despite the technical victory, the world did not feel safer.
Her pulse fluttered unevenly, anxiety humming beneath her skin like static. Even the air felt heavier somehow.
The door beside her opened, and Levi slid into the seat. His presence shifted the atmosphere immediately, steadier, warmer but not enough to quiet the tremor in her bones.
"You okay?" he asked gently.
